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The Ongoing Risk of Lithium-Ion Battery Fires: A Continuing Global Series

Writer's picture: Tim SpearsTim Spears


Lithium-ion batteries have become a cornerstone of modern technology, powering everything from smartphones and laptops to electric vehicles and energy storage systems. However, as their use has grown, so have the risks associated with their failure. Thermal runaway, overcharging, and improper disposal have led to catastrophic fires, causing significant property damage, environmental hazards, and, in some cases, loss of life. This blog compiles recent lithium-ion battery fire incidents worldwide for the end of January 2025, highlighting the critical need for fire prevention strategies, safe handling, and community risk reduction efforts.


Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Incidents


Scooter battery explodes, 28 e-bikes gutted in Bengaluru's Rajajinagar showroom fire


Location: Bengaluru, Karnataka, India


Summary: A fire broke out at the Okinawa Galaxy Showroom in Rajajinagar, Bengaluru, completely destroying 28 electric bikes. The incident occurred when a scooter battery exploded while being charged. The fire quickly spread, but the four staff members present managed to escape without injury. Authorities suspect a short circuit may have caused the explosion, but a full investigation, including electrical inspections, is pending.


Link to original article: Times of India


Fire crews put out debris fire at recycling center in Templeton caused by trashed lithium-ion batteries


Location: Templeton, California, USA


Summary: Firefighters responded to a fire at the Waste Management Recycling Facility in Templeton, where improperly disposed lithium-ion batteries ignited mixed debris. The fire, which spread to both indoor and outdoor areas, required a full commercial fire response. Crews extinguished the blaze in 30 minutes, with an additional two hours spent on overhaul operations due to the extensive amount of debris. Officials emphasized the importance of properly disposing of lithium-ion batteries at designated hazardous waste facilities to prevent similar incidents.


Link to original article: News Channel 3-12


Officials: Lithium-ion battery starts fire at Walkill apartment, forcing 75 people to evacuate


Location: Wallkill, New York, USA


Summary: A lithium-ion battery sparked a fire at the Slatewood Apartments on East Main Street in Wallkill, leading to the evacuation of 75 residents. Firefighters responded quickly, and while the specific type of lithium-ion battery involved was not identified, investigators confirmed it as the fire’s source. All residents were safely evacuated, and no injuries were reported. The building was unoccupied for several hours while fire crews ensured the fire was fully extinguished.


Link to original article: News 12 Battery fire incident in Claregalway now contained


Location: Claregalway, County Galway, Ireland


Summary: A fire that started in a shipping container holding industrial lithium-ion batteries at Xerotech in Claregalway Corporate Park burned for three days before being fully contained. Fire crews worked to keep the batteries cool to prevent reignition, eventually isolating them and submerging them in water. Nearby homes, businesses, and two schools were evacuated due to concerns over lithium contamination. Several firefighters experienced mild physical symptoms and were taken to the hospital as a precaution. Air quality tests are being conducted to determine when it is safe for businesses to return.


Link to original article: GalwayBayFM


Melbourne warehouse fire fueled by lithium-ion batteries sends smoke over Cheltenham and Moorabbin


Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia


Summary: A massive fire erupted at a warehouse in Cheltenham, Melbourne, involving approximately 3,000 lithium-ion batteries. The fire spread to an adjacent warehouse containing satellite dishes and cardboard boxes, destroying both structures. Thick black smoke billowed over the surrounding areas, prompting air quality warnings. Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) deployed 70 firefighters and 25 fire trucks, including ladder platforms and a teleboom, to control the fire. Crews remained on-site to monitor for thermal runaway risks. The cause is under investigation, but it is not suspected to be deliberate.


Link to original article: ABC News


Oklahoma City Fire Department issues lithium battery safety tips after battery sparks fire


Location: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA


Summary: A lithium-ion power bank caught fire while charging in a residence, emitting toxic white smoke and causing a minor burn injury to the homeowner. The fire was initially suppressed with a fire blanket, but the battery continued to off-gas, highlighting the challenges of lithium-ion fires. The Oklahoma City Fire Department (OCFD) responded and later issued safety tips, emphasizing the importance of monitoring charging devices and recognizing warning signs of lithium battery fires.


Link to original article: OKC Fox


1 person injured in Bedford Park fire, charred e-scooter found at the scene


Location: Bedford Park, Bronx, New York, USA


Summary: A fire broke out in a Bedford Park apartment, causing minor injuries to one resident. The FDNY confirmed that a charred e-scooter was found at the scene, and lithium-ion batteries were identified as the cause of the fire. The fire occurred early in the morning, at approximately 5 a.m. Video footage captured the moment the e-scooter battery ignited. The injured individual was a resident of the apartment and sustained minor injuries.


Link to original article: News 12 Bronx


Lithium-ion battery pack causes fire that guts house in Livermore Falls


Location: Livermore Falls, Maine, USA


Summary: A lithium-ion battery pack used for charging remote control cars caused a devastating fire that gutted a three-story house. Two occupants escaped unharmed. Firefighters from multiple departments responded and battled the fire for hours in freezing temperatures. The fire chief emphasized the growing risks of lithium-ion battery fires and advised the public to unplug battery packs after charging. The house was deemed uninhabitable due to extensive heat, smoke, and water damage.


Link to original article: Sun Journal


Warning as tablet battery explodes in direct sunlight, causing fire in car


Location: Mount Maunganui, New Zealand


Summary: A car fire in Mount Maunganui was caused by a tablet left on a blanket and exposed to direct sunlight, leading to a lithium-ion battery explosion. Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) issued a warning, emphasizing the risks of leaving battery-powered devices in hot environments. The fire ignited the blanket and spread within the vehicle. No injuries were reported, but authorities highlighted past incidents where similar fires resulted in casualties. Apple also issued a statement advising users to avoid exposing their devices to high temperatures.


Link to original article: 1News


Battery fire on crane vessel contained at Dutch terminal


Location: Eemshaven, Netherlands


Summary: A fire broke out on January 24 aboard the crane vessel Les Alizés, docked at the Wagenborg Terminal. The fire originated from lithium-ion batteries on board, prompting the evacuation of crew members. Firefighters successfully contained the fire by disconnecting and removing the affected batteries. The incident was brought under control by late afternoon, with no reported injuries.


Link to original article: SAFETY4SEA


Lithium-ion battery sparks garbage truck fire in Dobbs Ferry


Location: Dobbs Ferry, New York, USA


Summary: A fire broke out in a garbage truck at the Department of Public Works (DPW) garage after workers noticed smoke coming from the back of the truck. Upon dumping the load, they discovered a burning lithium-ion battery amid the garbage. Fire crews dismantled the pile to extract the hazardous battery, and a hazardous materials team ensured its proper disposal. As a result of the incident, officials issued guidance on safely disposing of lithium-ion batteries at designated hazardous waste facilities rather than in regular trash or recycling bins.


Link to original article: News 12 Hudson Valley


Gold Coast unit explodes in flames as hot e-scooter battery put in freezer


Location: Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia


Summary: A fire tore through an apartment in Southport after a resident attempted to cool an overheating e-scooter battery by placing it in a freezer. The lithium-ion battery entered thermal runaway and exploded, igniting a massive fire. Emergency responders arrived to find part of the apartment complex engulfed in flames. All occupants escaped, with one resident climbing off a balcony to safety. Firefighters emphasized that overheating lithium-ion batteries should never be placed in refrigerators or freezers, as this does not cool them but rather exacerbates the risk of explosion and fire.


Link to original article: ABC News


Hospital in Unionville reopens following X-ray machine fire


Location: Unionville, Missouri, USA


Summary: Putnam County Memorial Hospital was temporarily closed for 48 hours following a fire caused by a lithium-ion battery in a portable X-ray machine. The device caught fire in a hospital hallway but was quickly wheeled outside. Although no injuries occurred, fire extinguisher residue spread throughout much of the hospital, necessitating a significant cleanup effort. The hospital reopened after professional cleaning was completed.


Link to original article: KTVO News


Lithium battery to blame for truck fire


Location: St Andrews, South Canterbury, New Zealand


Summary: A fire broke out in a recycling collection truck due to a lithium-ion battery improperly disposed of in a curbside recycling bin. The truck driver noticed smoke coming from the back of the truck and immediately pulled into a nearby field, where the load was dumped and quickly caught fire. Fire crews extinguished the blaze, and no injuries were reported. Officials reiterated the dangers of discarding lithium-ion batteries in standard waste bins and advised proper disposal at designated recycling stations.


Link to original article: Otago Daily Times


Electric vehicle fire forces evacuations in Ojai


Location: Ojai, California, USA


Summary: A hybrid electric vehicle fire in Ojai led to the temporary evacuation and shelter-in-place orders for residents of several dozen homes. The Volvo XC90’s battery entered thermal runaway, producing thick smoke that spread across the neighborhood. Firefighters focused on protecting nearby structures while allowing the fire to burn itself out, as lithium-ion battery fires are difficult to extinguish with water. Drones equipped with infrared sensors detected residual heat in the vehicle long after the fire had subsided. No injuries were reported.


Link to original article: Yahoo News


Pocatello firefighters extinguish blaze at local manufacturing facility after battery ignites


Location: Pocatello, Idaho, USA


Summary: A fire broke out at a manufacturing facility that produces battery packs for drones and other devices. The building’s fire alarm system detected the fire, alerting firefighters, who arrived quickly and extinguished the fire. The facility was unoccupied at the time of the incident. The fire was determined to be accidental, originating from a lithium-ion battery stored inside the building. Though the affected area suffered fire damage, the structure remained salvageable. No injuries were reported.


Link to original article: Idaho State Journal


Lithium-ion battery failure sparks Friday morning garage fire in Hanahan


Location: Hanahan, South Carolina, USA


Summary: A fire broke out in an unattached garage on Yeamans Hall Road in Hanahan due to lithium-ion batteries failing during the charging process. Fire crews from the Hanahan and Goose Creek Rural Fire Departments responded and quickly extinguished the fire. Authorities emphasized the importance of using only certified chargers and cords when charging electronic devices to prevent similar incidents. No injuries were reported.


Link to original article: ABC News 4


Fire caused by lithium battery


Location: Ashburton, New Zealand


Summary: A fire broke out in a home on Cameron Street at 1:30 a.m., originating in a bedroom containing multiple lithium-ion batteries. Fire officials could not immediately determine which specific battery caused the fire or whether it was charging at the time. This was one of several lithium-ion battery fires reported in Ashburton in the past two years. The fire brigade warned residents to use the correct chargers, avoid using damaged batteries, and ensure that charging devices are not blocking exit paths in case of emergencies.


Link to original article: Ashburton Courier


Fire in off-the-books e-bike battery repair shop in Queens injures firefighter, 3 residents


Location: Queens, New York, USA


Summary: A fire broke out in an illegal e-bike battery repair shop operating from the basement of a three-story home in Flushing, Queens. The blaze started on the first floor and quickly spread, prompting an emergency response from the FDNY. Firefighters encountered heavy fire conditions and a frozen hydrant, delaying suppression efforts. Three residents and one firefighter were hospitalized with minor injuries. Investigators determined the fire was caused by a malfunctioning lithium-ion battery. The incident highlights the dangers of unregulated battery repair operations and the importance of fire prevention measures.


Link to original article: New York Daily News


See drone video of village block destroyed by fire; Finger Lakes community rallies to help victims


Location: Ovid, New York, USA


Summary: A fire destroyed an entire block of buildings in the village of Ovid, displacing 15–20 residents and putting 60 people out of work. The fire originated in an apartment above a grocery store due to a malfunctioning lithium-ion battery in a portable charging device. Firefighters attempted to contain the fire but were forced to retreat as it spread rapidly, taking nearly 11 hours to bring under control. Freezing temperatures complicated suppression efforts. Donations and aid efforts were quickly mobilized for those affected.


Link to original article: Syracuse.com


Snow blower destroyed by lithium battery blaze


Location: Westport, Connecticut, USA


Summary: A lithium-ion battery-powered snow blower caught fire while being used to clear snow after a storm. The equipment began running hot, hissing, and emitting smoke before bursting into flames. The intense fire caused lithium-ion cells to be ejected up to 150 feet due to thermal runaway. The landscaping crew moved the device away from structures, preventing further damage. Firefighters responded quickly, and no injuries were reported. The fire department issued guidance on safely storing and inspecting lithium-ion battery-powered equipment.


Link to original article: Westport Journal


​Council warns against binning batteries after curbside truck fire


Location: Ravenswood, Waimakariri District, New Zealand


Summary: A curbside waste collection truck caught fire after a lithium-ion battery ignited during compaction. The driver quickly dumped the load in a cul-de-sac, preventing major damage. Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) extinguished the blaze, which impacted over six tons of rubbish. The council reiterated that lithium batteries should never be disposed of in regular trash or recycling bins and urged residents to use designated hazardous waste facilities.


Link to original article: Chris Lynch Media


Garbage Truck Fire


Location: Clackamas County, Oregon, USA


Summary: Three garbage truck fires occurred within a week in Clackamas County, with two confirmed to be caused by lithium-ion batteries. One fire originated from a power tool battery, while another involved a vacuum cleaner battery. The third fire's cause was unidentified. Officials emphasized the importance of properly disposing of batteries at designated hazardous waste facilities to prevent similar incidents.


Link to original article: KBND News


​Electric scooter sparks fire in UMass Lowell dorm, causing evacuation


Location: Lowell, Massachusetts, USA


Summary: A fire broke out in a dormitory at UMass Lowell when an electric scooter’s lithium-ion battery ignited while charging. The fire started on the first floor of River Hawk Village, sending smoke through all five floors and forcing students to evacuate for over an hour. The Lowell Fire Department removed the burnt scooter and urged students to avoid overcharging their devices. University officials announced a review of safety protocols regarding battery-powered personal transportation devices.


Link to original article: WHDH 7News


Warning issued after Anglesea e-waste fire


Location: Anglesea, Victoria, Australia


Summary: A fire broke out at the Anglesea Transfer Station, attributed to improperly disposed e-waste, including lithium-ion batteries. Fire crews from Torquay and Anglesea responded quickly, bringing the fire under control within 20 minutes. Authorities emphasized the dangers of placing lithium-ion batteries in general waste and called for greater awareness of safe disposal methods. Reports suggest an increase in such incidents, particularly after the holiday season when many households discard old electronics. Officials urged residents to use designated battery recycling facilities.


Link to original article: Surf Coast Times


Fire breaks out in e-bike showroom; 9 e-vehicles destroyed


Location: Surat, Gujarat, India


Summary: A fire at the Bhavy Auto showroom and repair center destroyed nine electric bikes while the business was closed. The fire, which is suspected to have started due to a short circuit, was contained before it could spread to 40 other e-mopeds. Firefighters from multiple stations responded to the scene and prevented further damage. This incident highlights fire risks associated with storing large numbers of lithium-ion battery-powered vehicles in enclosed spaces.


Link to original article: DeshGujara


​Lithium battery fire damages shop and apartments in Stratford


Location: Stratford, London, United Kingdom


Summary: A fire broke out in a commercial shop with residential flats above, causing significant damage to the building. Four people evacuated safely before firefighters arrived. The fire was determined to have started due to the failure of a lithium-ion battery inside the shop. Firefighters responded quickly and contained the blaze within an hour. The London Fire Brigade issued warnings about lithium-ion battery safety and urged businesses and residents to follow proper charging and storage practices.


Link to original article: London Fire Brigade


Brussels flat declared ‘uninhabitable’ after scooter explosion


Location: Brussels, Belgium


Summary: A fire broke out in an apartment in the Brussels district of Neder-Over-Heembeek after an electric scooter battery exploded in a laundry room. The resident heard the explosion, but the flat’s smoke detectors and the building’s detection system were not functioning at the time. Firefighters responded, but the flat was deemed uninhabitable due to the extensive damage. The Brussels Fire Brigade issued guidance on lithium-ion battery safety, including using manufacturer-approved chargers, avoiding overheating, and placing batteries near smoke detectors. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.


Link to original article: VRT NWS


​Fire and Rescue NSW warns against charging lithium-ion devices near emergency exits


Location: Merrylands West, Sydney, Australia


Summary: Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) responded to a fire at a second-story unit where an e-bike caught fire while charging near the front door, trapping a resident inside. The fire caused significant damage, but firefighters rescued the woman and her dog using an aerial ladder. Two other residents were also rescued from balconies. FRNSW emphasized the importance of not charging lithium-ion devices near exits and issued safety recommendations, including monitoring charging devices, using reputable brands, and keeping batteries away from flammable materials. The incident highlights the rapid fire spread associated with lithium-ion battery failures.


Link to original article: Fire and Rescue NSW


Evacuation orders due to fire at the world's largest battery plant


Location: Moss Landing, California, USA


Summary: A fire broke out at the Vistra Power Plant in Moss Landing, home to the world’s largest battery storage facility. The fire, which started in the 300-MW Phase I energy storage section, led to evacuations of nearby residents and road closures. Firefighters opted to let the fire burn out rather than engage directly due to the nature of lithium-ion battery fires. Monterey County declared a local emergency, and officials advised residents to remain indoors due to toxic smoke concerns. Investigations into the fire’s cause will commence once it is fully extinguished.


Link to original article: KSBW News


The Hazards of Lithium-Ion Batteries


Lithium-ion batteries pose unique fire hazards due to their high energy density and sensitivity to thermal stress. Fires often occur due to:

  • Thermal Runaway: When batteries overheat, a chain reaction leads to self-sustaining combustion.

  • Overcharging or Improper Charging: Using non-manufacturer-approved chargers or charging near flammable materials can increase risks.

  • Physical Damage: Dropped or punctured batteries can ignite due to internal short circuits.

  • Improper Disposal: Discarding batteries in regular trash or recycling bins has led to multiple garbage truck and recycling plant fires.


Safety Guidelines for Lithium-Ion Battery Use and Disposal


To mitigate risks, experts recommend:

  1. Charge Safely: Use manufacturer-approved chargers and avoid overcharging.

  2. Store Properly: Keep batteries away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and flammable materials.

  3. Dispose Responsibly: Use designated hazardous waste facilities for battery disposal.

  4. Monitor for Warning Signs: If a battery is hissing, swelling, or emitting smoke, move it away from structures and call emergency services.

  5. Limit Indoor Storage: Businesses handling large numbers of lithium-ion batteries should have fire suppression systems in place.


Lithium-ion batteries are important to modern technology, but their hazards cannot be overlooked. As seen in these global incidents, improper handling, charging, and disposal can result in devastating fires. Fire safety professionals, building managers, and consumers must stay informed about best practices to mitigate risks. By implementing safety measures and raising awareness, we can reduce the frequency of lithium-ion battery fires and enhance overall community resilience.


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